Creamy Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes with Parmesan
Walt Disney World's 'ohana restaurant signature side dish features thinly sliced potatoes layered with sweet onions, sharp cheddar, and nutty parmesan, bound together with heavy cream and baked until golden and tender. The combination of two cheeses creates depth, while the 5-minute rest allows the creamy sauce to set slightly. Serve alongside roasted meats or as a comforting vegetarian main. This version captures the Disney classic that earned devoted fans returning for this dish alone.
Ingredients
- 1 lb potato, sliced thinly
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup sweet onion, choppedyellow onion1:1pantry
sharper onion bite
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- butter, for dish
Instructions
- 1
Slice potatoes into thin rounds.
- 2
Butter a shallow baking dish.
- 3
Layer potato slices and onion in the dish.
- 4
Sprinkle with cheddar, parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- 5
Repeat layering until potatoes and cheeses are used.
- 6
Pour heavy cream over the entire dish.
- 7
Bake until potatoes are tender and top is golden.
- 8
Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
Slice potatoes uniformly thin (1/8 inch) so they cook evenly throughout the baking time without some pieces remaining hard.
Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for creamier results and better melting throughout the layers.
The 5-minute rest is essential; it allows the cream to thicken slightly so portions hold together when served.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat covered at 350F for 20 minutes until warmed through.
Assemble through the cream-pouring step, cover, and refrigerate up to 12 hours. Bake from cold, adding 10-15 minutes to cooking time.
Serve hot directly from the baking dish or portioned onto warmed plates. Pairs with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip the 5-minute rest to avoid a runny, soupy consistency that doesn't hold together on the plate.
Do not slice potatoes thick to avoid hard centers that don't cook through in the hour.
Do not over-layer to avoid potatoes not cooking evenly; spread layers moderately.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
sharper onion bite
FAQ
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble through pouring cream, cover, refrigerate up to 12 hours, then bake from cold, adding 10-15 minutes cooking time. You can also bake, cool, refrigerate, and reheat covered at 350F for 20 minutes.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
Use half-and-half in the same amount for a lighter dish, though it will be slightly less rich. Whole milk works but produces a thinner sauce; increase to 1.25 cups if substituting.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Refrigerate covered up to 3 days. Freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered at 350F until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.